Body mechanics is the use of proper structural alignment and body movement to maintain healthy posture, reduce physical stress, enhance physical capability, and prevent injury while providing massage. ABMP members can earn free CE hours for many of these activities in the ABMP Education Center (search for “Self-care” at www.abmp.com/ce to find these opportunities, or click the links below).
During a session, therapists use a wide variety of movements and postures: standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and lifting. They also use a wide variety of hand and wrist positions. When performing these movement and postures from a properly supported position, and utilizing balanced breathing techniques, you have less risk of injury and conserve body energy. This series of Massage & Bodywork Articles look at good body mechanics in specific body positions. ABMP members earn 1 CE Hour when they log in to the ABMP Education Center and complete a 5-question quiz based on the content from these articles (note that NCBTMB requires 15,000 words for 1 hour of CE).
Massage therapy is the most requested service in spas. From cruise ships to five-star hotels, the opportunities for practitioners who want to work in this setting are endless. This article by noted body mechanics expert Barb Frye looks at task-oriented body mechanics that will keep you safe and healthy while working at a spa. Please note that no CE hours are associated with reading this article.